Diversity

Davis Brown Law Firm supports fostering the professional and civic growth of attorneys and staff of all backgrounds. We serve an extensive client base and practice in a broad range of legal areas and industries. Recognizing that a diverse team can better address client needs, the firm endeavors to hire and retain individuals with a strong work ethic, commitment to excellence, and diverse talents and experiences.

As a progressive law firm, Davis Brown was the first in Iowa law firm to:

Elect a female president. In 1998, Deborah M. Tharnish was elected by her peers to serve as the Board of Directors President.

Elect an openly gay, female president. In 2011, Sharon K. Malheiro was elected by her peers to serve as Board of Directors President.

Offer health benefits to same sex domestic partners in 2004, five years before it was mandated.

Advancing Female Leaders

In the late 70s and early 80s, when the legal community was only beginning to hire women lawyers, and many firms hired only a single female lawyer, one of our named partners, A. Arthur Davis, believed in hiring the most talented person, regardless of gender. This commitment continues today as a cornerstone of our firm culture. Amongst major law firms in Des Moines, Davis Brown ranks highest in female attorneys.

Professional Development

Through our internal mentoring program, policies, programming, pro bono work, community involvement and team approach to work, lateral hires, associates, summer associates, and interns receive support as they grow their legal practices and experience.

Drake Law School selects up to five students from underrepresented groups based on superior academic credentials, information contained in their Drake Law J.D. application and diversity statement, as well as a personal interview. To apply, follow the steps to complete the Drake Law J.D. application on the Application Instructions webpage.

Community Diversity Initiatives

LGBT Community - Davis Brown has been proud to advocate on behalf of the LGBT community, serving as cooperating attorney for Lambda Legal Defense Fund and as a member of the Iowa Supreme Court's Task Force on Gender and Racial Bias in the judicial system.